Fake letter writer pleads

John T. Powell, Jr., of Wadsworth, has pleaded guilty to writing a fake letter claiming to explain how funds collected from Norton speed cameras will be used.

Under a Nov. 30 plea arrangement in Barberton Municipal Court, Powell pleaded guilty to impersonating a police officer, a first degree misdemeanor. He agreed to write a letter of apology and serve 24 hours of community service. Powell was referred to a diversion program which when completed will see the charge dismissed.

According to Norton officials, the fake letter contained a police logo and the forged signature, incorrectly spelled, of Chief of Police John Dalessandro.

The letter was written as a prank to Powell’s mother-in-law who shared it with friends and then made its way onto social media. Powell turned himself in when he learned of the postings and was very apologetic to police.

Norton Administrative Officer Robert Fowler declined to comment other than to say it was a truly a sad situation.